Amherstburg town council has approved a new development in the municipality's heritage district, giving the green light to a proposed four-storey apartment building at 261 Wolfe Street.
Heritage Alteration Permit Approved
On Monday night, town council approved a heritage alteration permit for the vacant property, following an earlier endorsement from the municipal heritage committee. The proposal calls for a multi-residential building at the edge of the town's east district, though the exact number of units has not yet been confirmed.
Design Revisions for Compatibility
The building's design was revised after consultation with town planners to better align with surrounding heritage properties, including the newly completed Loft project at 247 Brock Street, according to a report to council. Changes included a higher stone base along the building's street-facing side, lighter exterior colours, and updated window and roof detailing, such as accent headers, transoms, and cornice moulding.
The town stated that the updated design reflects "design cues" from nearby buildings while remaining "clearly new construction." The report emphasized that new freestanding construction must be compatible with the heritage character and attributes of adjacent heritage properties and the cultural heritage value of the district.
"This means adhering to the character of the surrounding neighbourhood of the district with regards to lot patterns, heights, massing, setback, building scale, roof pitches and exterior materials," the report read. "Maintaining the height and rhythm of the existing streetscape will unify the district."
Parking and Outdoor Space
The building will place parking to the rear and side, with outdoor space at the front. Monday's approval requires the developer to submit final exterior materials for review before a building permit is issued. Significant changes from the approved design would require further council approval, and the permit will expire if work is not completed within two years.
